Carmel and Ciara, mother and daughter from county Wexford, recently graduated side by side at SETU’s conferring ceremony at the National Opera House in Wexford town.
Carmel and Cíara's graduation is a testament to their mutual support of one another, and the strength of their family bond. Carmel studied a Master of Business in Executive Leadership, while simultaneously, Cíara studied a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Carmel gets back to business
Carmel’s journey back into education began when she came across her master’s programme through a business networking event. The course sparked her interest and reignited a passion for learning. As a woman in business, Carmel felt this would bring valuable skills to her work. With her family’s encouragement, Carmel applied for the course through the Centre for Insurance, Risk and Data Analytics Studies (CIRDAS) at SETU, and embarked on a two-year journey that was as challenging as it was rewarding.
Carmel appreciated the camaraderie in her class, particularly the support among her peers, who, like her were balancing full-time jobs, family, and coursework. She emphasised that the friendships and encouragement were incredible, and that it was powerful to share the journey with others in similar circumstances. Carmel plans to integrate her new skills into her business, finding new inspiration for her work, thanks to her time at SETU.
“While Cíara and I are receiving our awards today, our home has truly been a place of learning. Without the encouragement and understanding from my husband and children, none of this would have been possible."
Carmel Tennant, SETU graduate of the Master of Business in Executive Leadership.
Cíara's passion for education and care
Cíara entered SETU with her sights set on a career in early childhood education (ECE). Hoping to eventually become a primary school teacher, she applied through the CAO and immersed herself in an area of study she had long been passionate about. A highlight of Cíara's experience was work placement. She had the opportunity to work in an ECE setting where she experienced first hand the joys and demands of the sector.
“It was such a valuable experience, and it solidified my love for working with children.”
Cíara Tennant, SETU graduate of B.A. (Hons) in Early Chidlhood Education and Care.
Writing her thesis, which explored cultural inclusivity in early years settings, was also deeply meaningful to her. Cíara enjoyed that she got to research a topic close her heart. Beyond academics, Cíara found lifelong friends and embraced the social side of college life. Cíara looks forward to continuing her work with young children, while contemplating further studies in education or psychology.
Celebrating together
Together, Carmel and Cíara’s shared graduation day was a celebration of their unique paths, although it was not just a personal journey, but a family experience. Over the past two years, Carmel’s eldest daughter was also studying for her masters, while her youngest prepared for the Junior Certificate. This busy academic atmosphere fostered a shared commitment to growth, resilience and mutual support. Carmel and Cíara’s graduations represent a significant family milestone, emphasising the value of shared goals and the unwavering support they have for each other’s aspirations. Their shared academic journey highlights the power of family and the lifelong commitment to learning.
